Definition

Autism is a spectrum of complex brain disorders. The disorders result in social, behavioral, and communication problems. Other conditions that are part of this spectrum include
Asperger syndrome
and pervasive developmental disorder. In the US, autism spectrum disorders affect about 1 in 100 children aged 3-17 years old.

Causes

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder. This means that problems in brain development cause autism. Scientists are searching for answers about what causes these development problems. Studies suggest:

Autism seems to run in some families. Several genes may be involved.

Problems during pregnancy or delivery may interfere with normal brain development.

Something in the environment that a child is exposed to may be a factor.

Risk Factors

These factors increase your chance of developing autism:

Sex: male (Boys are four times more likely to have autism than girls.)

Family history: siblings of a child with autism have a 3%-7% chance of being autistic.

A number of other conditions are related to autism, although the relationship between them is not clear:

Symptoms

Autism usually first appears during early childhood (2-6 years old). The severity of symptoms varies. Behaviors and abilities may differ from day to day. Symptoms may decrease as the child grows older. Children with autism may have a combination of abnormal behaviors.

Diagnosis

Doctors who specialize in autism will observe the child's behavior, social contacts, and communication abilities. They will evaluate mental and social development. Parents will be asked about the child's behavior. Some doctors ask parents to bring in videos of the child at home.

Tests may include:

Neuropsychological tests

Questionnaires and observation schedules

Intelligence tests

Medical tests to rule out other conditions that cause similar symptoms may include:

Treatment

There is no cure for autism. The severity of symptoms may decrease over the years. Children with autism and their families may benefit from early intervention. Children aged 18-30 months who had high-intensity intervention showed improvements in their IQ, language, and behavior.

Children with autism respond well to a structured, expected schedule. Many children with autism learn to cope with their disabilities. Most need assistance and support throughout their lives. Others are able to work and live independently when they grow up.

Children with autism can benefit from:

Special Education

Programs that meet the child's special needs improve the odds of learning. Children with autism may have trouble with assignments, concentration, and
anxiety
. Teachers who understand the condition can work with the child's abilities. Programs should use the child's interests. Some children do better in a small-group setting. Others do well in regular classrooms with special support. Vocational training can help prepare young adults for a job.

Therapy Services

Speech, physical, and occupational therapies may improve speech and activities. Children with autism need help developing social skills. Mental health professionals can help a family cope with caring for a child with autism. Counselors help parents learn how to manage behaviors.

Medication

There are no drugs to treat autism. Some drugs are used to help manage symptoms.
Aripiprazole
and
risperidone
are the only drugs currently approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat autism-related symptoms. Medicines for
anxiety
and
depression
can also help treat obsessive and aggressive behaviors. Your child's doctor may use other medicines to help control other disruptive behaviors.

Other Therapies

There are other treatments available. These include dietary changes and alternative therapies. Talk with your child's doctor first to see if any of these would be helpful for your child.

Prevention

There are no guidelines for preventing autism. The cause is unknown. Scientists are searching for its underlying causes.

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Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.
Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.